Ilyasova Claims MVP Prize

Turkey's Ersan Ilysasova was named MVP of the Ostchem U20 European Championship Men in Izmir on Sunday.

The 208 cm small forward was representing his country for the first time in two years, his last appearance coming during qualifiying action for the 2004 U18 European Championship Men.

While Ilyasova's comeback was not enough for Turkey to claim gold, the Milwaukee Bucks player put together an impressive championship, averaging 17.4 points and 7.1 rebounds in 8 games.

Ilyasova was joined as an All-Tournament selection by team-mate Cenk Akyol, who cemented his reputation as one of Europe's rising stars with his polished play in Izmir. He averaged 16.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists for the tournament.

One of the surprises of the competition, and the third nomination to the All-Tournament team, was Slovenia's Emir Preldzic. The Bosnian born small forward was a revelation in Izmir and finished second overall in points (20.3 ppg) and rebounding (9.4 rpg). He also led Slovenia in assists with 3.4 apg.

Champions Serbia & Montenegro had one All-Tournament team member in center Nikola Pekovic.

Pekovic was a fearsome inside presence for Serbia & Montenegro throughout the competition and a major reason for his side's gold medal.